How to Strip Old Duck Decoys

Old wooden duck decoys need to be stripped down and primed from time to time so they can be repainted.

While plastic duck decoys bought at retail super centers are a dime a dozen, almost any duck hunter worth his salt will tell you he prefers to use good, old-fashion wooden duck decoys. One reason is that the wooden duck decoy wobbles in a way that echoes the movements of an actual duck, making it more effective as a decoy. Another reason is the traditional craft of carving and painting wooden decoys. Some duck hunters like to make their own wooden decoys; they may also wish to reuse old decoys that have been rehabilitated and refinished.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water
• Old toothbrush
• Algae-cleaning agent
• Fine-grade steel wool
• Fine-grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Remove the old decoy from the water and allow it to dry thoroughly.

2. Remove any algae buildup from the decoy with warm water and an old toothbrush; make sure the decoy has completely dried out trying to remove the algae. You can also use a mold- or algae-cleaning agent, but use it sparingly since it can damage wood.

3. Use a fine-grade steel wool pad to remove any rust buildup left by hooks.

4. Place the decoy in a dry place and allow it to dry completely.

5. Inspect the decoy thoroughly, specifically looking for nicks or areas where it may have developed dry rot.

6. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to completely sand down the decoy to as smooth a surface as possible.

7. Insert wood filler or liquid wood stabilizer in any deeply cracked areas where there may be dry rot. Allow 24 hours for the filler to dry, then sand the area again so it matches the smoothness of the rest of the decoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Once the stripping and sanding process is complete, you are ready to repaint and refinish your wooden decoy.

References

• Duck Decoy Shop: The History of Duck Decoys
• Chesepeake Old Decoys: Duck Decoy Restoration